Thomas William Simpson

Tom was born in Frankfurt Kentucky in 1936. He graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Architecture and settled in Knoxville. Tom’s architectural career spanned many decades, during which he worked for Barber McMurry and other architectural firms, was a professor of architecture at UT and built a long career at TVA, from which he retired in the late 90’s. Following his retirement from TVA Tom remained active in architecture, lending his talents as a design consultant to architectural firms throughout the Southeast, and meeting on an occasional basis with his fellow “Ancient Architects” to ruminate on all that is right and wrong in the field today. Tom skillfully and beautifully designed a wide variety of projects, ranging from office buildings to sports arenas to a children’s advocacy center.

Tom’s other interests and hobbies were varied, and he approached them all with the same technical precision and joy that he applied to architecture. He was a skilled artist and photographer, an expert woodworker and an avid reader. Although Tom never played an instrument, that was more than offset by his love of music and his joy in sharing it. Tom possessed an extensive, eclectic library of music, ranging from classical to contemporary. His collection of music spanned from reel-to-reel to vinyl (which he loved the best) to CDs to digital. His knowledge included not only artists and albums, but also details such as which venues, conductors and orchestras created the most meaningful classical productions. He introduced countless family and friends to new artists and collections which to this day remain a part of the soundtracks of their lives. Tom was a long-term member of Second Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder and on the Building Committee and was active in bible study.

Tom was preceded in death by his mother (Wilma), his father (Elbert), his brother (Elbert), his sisters (Fran and Nancy) and his stepson (Lindsay). Tom is survived by his cherished wife, Ann McMurry, of 47 years, his daughter Shawn (Larry), his sons Tommy (Christy) and Shannon (Kelli), his stepson Russ (Joy), his stepdaughter Melissa (Brad), along with nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Planning for a family memorial is underway. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank The Lantern at Morning Point of Clinton and Shalom Hospice of Tennessee for their love and care of Tom.